Men's Pants

Pants are a seasonal requirement for work, play, and relaxation. Casual styles are suitable for daily wear, while a few dressy pairs help you build looks for formal or professional events. Here is a guide to different styles of men's pants.

What are "double knee" pants?

Double knee is a poly cotton twill cloth. It is usually 65% polyester and 35% cotton. "Twill" refers to a type of weave that results in a pattern of diagonal parallel ribs. This yields a fabric that is lightweight, exceptionally durable, and machine washable. This makes it suitable for work clothing, uniforms, and relaxed wear.

What does BDU mean?

"BDU" merely indicates a style of Battle Dress Uniform associated with the United States Armed Forces and its standard combat uniform. Some BDU is surplus. Most BDU is double knee featuring reinforced stitching at typical points of stress, such as knees, hips, thighs, and seat. Other features, such as drawstring cuffs, slash pockets, and cargo pockets, may vary between brands.

On the whole, BDU is engineered for rough, outdoorsy play and work. These pants can be your go-to wash-and-wear pants for weekends, days off, activities, and rugged fun. Generally, they have a roomy enough fit for your accessories such as your wallet and keys, yet they are not too baggy.

Can you wear khakis for business casual?

Yes, khakis are acceptable. So are chinos and twills. They need to look as crisp and professional as possible. As a general rule, your khakis should be the most dressed down part of your business casual outfit. Pair your clean, pressed khakis with a polo shirt or an open collar shirt. You can also pair them with a sport coat or sweater, though you may want to add these top layers when you want to keep warm.

What is ripstop?

Ripstop is a fabric woven and reinforced to prevent tears and rips from spreading. Ripstop-woven pants come in handy if you lead a highly active life, or work a job in which you sustain lots of activity. This fabric is often nylon, so it is thin and lightweight, but it stands up to demanding activity. There are ripstop-woven cargo pants geared at laborers of all kinds. This type of fabric makes light but heavy-duty apparel, gear, and luggage.

What are drop crotch men's pants?

Drop crotch men's pants have a longer rise. "Rise" refers to the length spanning vertically from the waist seam to the crotch seam. A longer rise means that the crotch seam is much lower than normal. For example, there are drop crotch jogger pants available to keep you more comfortable fit while you run. The even longer rise that drop crotch entails offers an extra roomy fit in your hips, thighs, and seat. This style often includes a tapered lower leg.